Tuesday, 26 July 2011

Another week, another oddly-scheduled round of Série A games. Internacional, with the Audi Cup wedged into their calender, visited Avaí back on Thursday evening, whilst Santos were again absent from the fixture list. The result of the weekend came at the Pacaembu, where Cruzeiro handed Corinthians their first defeat of the season. Elsewhere, there were wins for Vasco, Fluminense, and Atlético-PR.

Brasileirão Gameweek 11 Round-upThe unfortunately-named Osmar Loss started his temporary stewardship of Internacional on a positive note; the Colorado beat struggling Avaí at the Ressacada. The hosts, aided by the worst refereeing decision of the week, actually took the lead on the stroke of half time, but were swept away after the interval; goals from Andrezinho, Leandro Damião, and Andrés D'Alessandro ensured maximum points for Inter.

Rivaldo shows his frustration for São Paulo.

Adílson Batista's first game in charge of São Paulo was a frustrating one; the Tricolor could only manage a 2-2 draw with Atlético Goianiense, despite dominating affairs at the Morumbi. With Denílson impressing on his first start since returning on loan from Arsenal, São Paulo monopolised possession, yet were caught cold by two rare Dragão attacks, and left the field to a chorus of boos. City rivals Corinthians also endured a tough weekend, suffering defeat at the hands of Joel Santana's Cruzeiro side. The Raposa only needed one goal to see of the league leaders, but what a goal it was; Wallyson rocketing home a delicious volley from fully 35 yards.

Flamengo, meanwhile, presented with a chance to cut the gap at the top, were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by the ever-unpredictable Ceará. With Ronaldinho and Thiago Neves both (controversially) suspended, Renato "Vulture King" Abreu took advantage of a rare moment in the spotlight, volleying Fla into a first half lead. Some sleepy defending from the Rubro-Negro, however, allowed Felipe Azevedo to net a late equaliser. Fluminense, meanwhile, picked up a much-needed win against Palmeiras, thanks to Marquinho's tidy finish.

King of the hill; El Morro celebrates his second for Atlético-PR.

Série A lanterna Atlético Paranaense finally claimed their first win of the campaign on Saturday evening, overcoming Botafogo. Uruguayan striker Santiago "El Morro" García was in imperious form, bagging himself a brace for the Furacão. At the Ipatingão, Diego Souza scored twice against his former club, as Vasco triumphed over Atlético-MG. The remaining two matches featured all four promoted sides, but produced precious little excitement; América-MG and Bahia were held to goalless draws by Figueirense and Coritiba respectively.